A Michigan man is facing multiple charges after being accused of posing as a fire captain to gain entry to crime scenes. Jason Edward Barnes, 47, from Clinton Township, has been implicated in two incidents where he allegedly misrepresented himself as emergency personnel. According to CBS Detroit, on May 5, Barnes attempted to enter a house where a death investigation was taking place.
In a separate instance detailed by FOX 2 Detroit, he showed up at a fire scene wearing firefighter gear, complete with a badge, on May 28. He is charged with impersonating firefighter/emergency medical service personnel, unlawful use of fire emblems/logos, and possession of a firearm and ammunition by a prohibited person.
Macomb County Prosecutor Peter Lucido underscored the gravity of the offenses, stating, "We take the act of impersonating emergency personnel very seriously, as it undermines the trust and safety of our community." His words were echoed in the report of CBS Detroit, emphasizing the potential compromise to ongoing investigations and public safety these actions could bring.
Barnes' charges include a two-year felony for impersonating a firefighter/emergency medical service personnel and, as reported by WWJ Newsradio, he is also charged as a habitual fourth offender—increasing the potential severity of penalties. He was arraigned with bond set at $250,000 and is expected to attend a probable cause hearing on July 2.
